Brisbane Open House isn’t just for architecture lovers and history buffs — it’s a city-wide adventure that invites families to explore the city. From fire stations to old homesteads, here’s a detailed guide to kid-friendly and family-welcoming venues to visit during the weekend.
What’s On: Saturday 18 July?
ABC Brisbane: See how ABC stories come to life across radio, TV, and online. Kids will love peeking into real studios, seeing where the news is made, and spotting the live radio booth perched above the foyer. With rolling tours throughout the day and plenty to explore, it’s a great way to spark curiosity about media, storytelling, and the magic of broadcasting.
Government House: Explore the grand mansion and lush gardens, where Queensland’s Governor resides. Kids can explore the grounds, see the State Room, and possibly meet the Governor’s adorable dogs, if they make an appearance!
Port of Brisbane: The Port Office at the Port of Brisbane offers families an engaging look at maritime operations, with guided tours that highlight its shipping container-inspired design. At the Svitzer Tug Base, children can climb aboard real tugboats, explore the engine room and wheelhouse. Patrick Terminals Brisbane AutoStrad offers panoramic views, close-up looks at automated container handling, and a sausage sizzle!
Queensland Maritime Museum: Experience the historic HMAS Diamantina, an actual WWII naval ship, and discover model ships and interactive displays on sea exploration. A hands-on, high-seas adventure!
What’s On: Sunday 19 July?
Roma Street Fire Station is a working emergency hub, and during Open House, families can explore real fire engines, see demonstrations (sirens included!), and chat with friendly firefighters about how they keep our city safe. It’s an action-packed visit that combines fun with fire safety education.
Miegunyah House Museum: Step into the world of Brisbane’s 19th-century settlers. This beautiful colonial home features authentic Victorian-era furniture, clothing, and toys. Volunteers in period costumes make the experience feel like stepping into a storybook. Kids will love exploring the old bedrooms, gardens, and traditional kitchen.
Newstead House: Step inside Brisbane’s oldest surviving European residence and explore more than 175 years of rich history. Set high above the Brisbane River, the beautifully restored home offers a glimpse into colonial life with elegant period furnishings, heritage architecture, and stories of its influential past residents.
Parliament House: Walk the halls of power and feel the weight of history. Visitors can discover the legislative chambers where laws are made and hear stories about Queensland’s political pioneers.
Pip Theatre: Discover the inner workings of a live performance venue on this fun-filled family day, beneath a replica Eiffel Tower and Dome Roof Theatre. Families can enjoy tasting local foods, and getting an exclusive backstage tour of PIP Theatre to see how performances come to life. With live music, actor Q&As, face painting, and talks on design, this is perfect for all ages!
Wolston Farmhouse: This heritage-listed farmhouse is surrounded by wide open spaces — ideal for running around, while learning about pioneer life. Costumed guides demonstrate old farming tools and traditional baking methods, often with hands-on participation.
Open All Weekend
Centenary Pool & Spring Hill Baths: These historic public pools are architectural gems and offer a glimpse into Brisbane’s leisure history. Exploring the retro change rooms, mosaic artwork, and pool design is a unique experience. For braver kids – and their adults – dare to take a mid-winter swim!
Museum of Brisbane: This family-friendly museum inside City Hall has interactive exhibits, hands-on installations, and often a dedicated kids’ trail. Don’t miss the clock tower tour for stunning city views!
Queensland Police Museum: Kids can unleash their inner sleuth with interactive displays and an augmented reality crime scene, as well as sitting on a real police motorcycle! It’s a fascinating way to learn how police work has evolved, with a great balance of storytelling and science.
Shingle Inn (City Hall): A Brisbane institution, this café is a slice of 1930s charm with its dark timber panelling and heritage décor. During Brisbane Open House weekend, Shingle Inn are giving away ‘Paint Your Own Biscuit’ kits with every purchase of a Teddy Bear’s High Tea for children. The perfect pit stop for all ages over the busy weekend!
Grab your Brisbane Open House guide from King George Square, pack some snacks, and hit Brisbane Open House with the whole family!